Man Killed, 3 Children Injured by Falling Tree in Howard County

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A 75-year-old grandfather was killed Saturday when a tree fell on him while he was grilling in Howard County, Maryland.

Emergency crews arrived at the 2800 block of Daisy Road in Woodbine after getting a call about a man trapped under a tree. The victim was visiting Annapolis for the day for a family gathering, according to investigators.

Police say the victim's three grandchildren, ages 9, 10 and 16, were also injured by the falling tree. Two of the injured children were transported to Howard County General Hospital where they were treated and released.

The tree also caused extensive damage to four vehicles and the house. The home is uninhabitable due to a large hole in the roof.

Investigators said it appears the tree was rotten and gave way. While this incident is considered an freak accident, fire officials encourage residents who live within the "fall zone" of large trees to consult a professional tree service from time-to-time to assess the trees' health.

The Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services chaplain and the American Red Cross are helping the family.